Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Walsh and Leyden expressed an opinion on Senator Regan. I have noted their comments. Senators Norris, Carroll and Ó Brolcháin raised the matter of cystic fibrosis and welcomed the good news that the contract will be signed today. We all want to join in that welcome. All parties did their utmost and quite a few parliamentarians worked hard to see this day come about. I congratulate everyone involved. I look forward to the Government's commitment and to the opening of the facility in the near future.

In response to Senator Norris, I will make inquires into the Bill tabled by the former Senator, Dr. Henry, and revert to him. Senator Carroll raised the matter of dignity for patients at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and referred to the hospital group's invitation of a meeting with the Minister. I will pass it on to the Minister this morning. Senator Hannigan discussed access to college library facilities for students awaiting their grants. I will pass his strong views on to the Minister.

Senator Ó Brolcháin raised the issue of the high cost of heating and the great success of the warmer homes scheme. As he stated, 25,000 houses have benefited. There is significant interest in the opportunity, given that there are 1,000 applications per month.